You’re driving to work in Hartford or maybe just grabbing coffee in Stamford, and you look up. There it is—the American flag or the Connecticut state flag sitting halfway down the pole. It’s a somber sight. Instantly, you wonder what happened. Did we lose someone big? Is it a national day of mourning?
Honestly, it’s a question that pops up more than you’d think. In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont is usually the one making the call. But tracking down the why can sometimes feel like a wild goose chase through government press releases.
The Current Status: Why Are Flags At Half Mast In CT Today?
As of Sunday, January 18, 2026, flags in Connecticut are actually at full staff unless a very local municipal order is in place.
If you see a flag at half-mast today, it’s likely due to one of two things: a local town-level remembrance or a misunderstanding of the current schedule. Earlier this month, there was talk of flags being lowered in nearby states like Maryland and Michigan for fallen officers and former senators, but Connecticut’s state-wide directive currently stands at full height.
Now, don't get me wrong. This can change in a heartbeat.
Governor Lamont often issues "Half-Staff Alerts" for significant passing of state leaders, first responders, or in the wake of national tragedies. For instance, just last month in December 2025, the state saw flags lowered for State Representative Kevin Ryan. When a figure like that—who served for decades—passes away, the flags stay down until the evening of their funeral. It’s about respect. It's about taking a collective breath as a state.
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How the Decision Actually Happens
It isn't just a random choice. There’s a whole protocol.
Basically, the Governor of Connecticut has the authority to lower the flags for state officials or residents who have made an extraordinary contribution. The President of the United States handles the national orders (think Pearl Harbor Remembrance or the passing of a Supreme Court Justice).
When the President issues a proclamation, Connecticut follows suit. No questions asked.
But when it's a "Connecticut-only" thing? That’s Lamont’s desk. He’ll usually focus on:
- Line-of-duty deaths: Police officers, firefighters, or National Guard members.
- State leaders: Former governors, long-serving legislators, or prominent judges.
- Tragedies: Significant accidents or mass-casualty events that impact the Connecticut community.
Common Confusion and Flag Etiquette
Sometimes you see a flag at half-mast and think there’s new news, but it might just be a "stationary" honor.
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For example, did you know that on Memorial Day, the flag is supposed to be at half-mast only until noon? Then you hoist it to the top. It’s a transition from mourning to honoring the living. If someone forgets to pull it up at 12:01 PM, everyone driving by thinks there’s a new emergency.
Also, Connecticut has some very specific "fixed" days. We just passed the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks in December, where flags were lowered to honor the 18 service members from Connecticut who died that day in 1941. Names like Eric Allen of Darien and Henry Carlson of Norwich are literally etched in stone near the Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge in New Haven. On those days, the half-mast order is automatic.
What if I see a flag down in my town but not at the Capitol?
This happens a lot.
Town Mayors and First Selectmen have the right to lower flags on municipal buildings for local heroes. If a beloved high school coach or a long-time town clerk passes away, New Britain or Danbury might lower their flags even if Hartford doesn’t.
It’s a localized way to grieve. If the flags at your local post office are up, but the ones at Town Hall are down, it’s almost certainly a local loss.
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Keeping Track of the Alerts
If you’re a business owner or just someone who wants to stay informed, checking the CT.gov portal is the only "official" way to be sure. They have a specific "Flag Status" page. It’s usually updated within an hour of any executive order.
You can also sign up for email alerts from the Governor’s office. It’s a bit "government-manual" in its tone, but it’s the fastest way to get the facts before the rumors start flying on Facebook or X.
Real Actions for Today
Since the flags are currently at full staff statewide, you don't need to adjust yours if you have one at home. However, it's a good time to check the condition of your flag. Connecticut winters are brutal. Between the "Severe Cold Weather Protocols" Lamont has been activating this month and the wind off the Sound, flags get tattered fast.
A few quick tips for flag owners in CT:
- Check the edges: If it's fraying, it's time for a replacement.
- Illuminate at night: If you fly it 24/7, it needs a dedicated light.
- Local disposal: If your flag is beyond repair, don't just toss it in the trash. Most VFW posts or American Legion chapters in towns like Milford or West Hartford have drop-boxes for retirement ceremonies.
If you’re looking for the next scheduled day where flags will definitely be lowered, keep an eye on the calendar for Peace Officers Memorial Day in May, or any sudden proclamations from the Governor’s office regarding state-level figures.
Stay tuned to local news outlets like NBC Connecticut or the CT Mirror, as they usually broadcast the Governor's directives the moment they are signed. If you see the flags dip tomorrow, you'll know exactly where to check first.
To stay ahead of any sudden changes, bookmark the official Connecticut Governor's Flag Status page and ensure your local municipality hasn't issued a private mourning order for a community member.